Marine Antennas are critical components of any boat’s communication system. Therefore it is very important to select the correct antenna to maximize communication with other boaters and shore stations. The main purpose of a VHF antenna is to radiate the power that the radio transmitter produces in the correct direction. Antennas also require a weather-protected enclosure (or be made of a corrosion resistant metal and plastic) to withstand the forces of nature.

VHF antennas are made of stainless steel or fiberglass. Where maximum range and durability are important (such as on the Great Lakes or the ocean), Wholesale Marine recommends the Shakespeare Galaxy 8’ VHF Marine Antenna, or the Shakespeare Marina Stainless 3’ VHF Marine Antenna. These antenna have been coated with smooth polyurethane and provide years of reliable use. They have stainless steel ferrules as well as brass and copper elements for maximum range and efficiency.

How to Maximize Your Marine Antenna’s Range

To maximize the range of your VHF, there are a few tips:

Marine VHF radios for recreational boats are limited to 25 watts of output. Unlike Single Sideband or Ham radios, their range cannot be boosted by using a more powerful transmitter.

VHF radios operate on a line of sight principle between stations. This means that their signals do not bend around obstructions or over the horizon.

Antenna height, more than any other factor, determines how far a boat can transmit. An antenna mounted high up a mast ‘sees’ farther over the horizon.

Antenna gain is important. If several otherwise equal radios try to contact a single receiving radio, the higher gain antenna is the one a receiving radio will hear.

A given antenna’s range may be determined by using this formula:

To determine the range of an antenna, multiply the square root of its height (in feet) above water by 1.42. This gives the range in miles.

Wholesale Marine carries everything our customers need for their boats at very competitive prices, including Marine Antennas for their communication systems. So, if you have a question about our antenna selection or wish to place an order,just call us Monday through Friday, from 9:00 AM until 6:00 PM at (877) 388-2628. Order today and you’ll receive same day flat rate shipping. Be sure to ask your representative aboutour Captain’s Loyalty Program for additional discounts every time you shop at Wholesale Marine.